IN THE BATHROOM

STAINING

Pink / red stains

The reddish-pink colour sometimes seen on shower curtains, bath sealant, or around taps is not
caused by the water itself, but by the growth of common bacteria or yeasts. Both can thrive in
moist, warm environments like those found in bathrooms. Their presence does not indicate a
problem with the quality of the mains water supply.
The solution to the problem is to wipe down wet surfaces and increase air circulation by
opening a window or fitting an extractor fan to ensure that affected areas are quickly dried out
after use. Household cleaner, disinfectant or bleach solution can be used to kill off the bacteria
and yeast spores.

Mould

Black, grey or red staining around taps in the bathroom or showers, on the grout
between bathroom tiles and in washing machine powder drawers is quite common.
The staining is caused by the presence of airborne mould that can grow and
proliferate in damp areas. The problem is made worse if the area is poorly
ventilated, or if aerosol deodorants or other sprays (which provide a food source
for the mould) are used.

Simply improving the ventilation in the room, combined with regular use of
household cleaning agent, will help minimise the problem.

page 8